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VILLAGERS have issued a plea for
star spotters to stay away as secret filming starts in Lacock, Wiltshire
on Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.
Residents of the quiet village,
who are preparing themselves for the imminent arrival of about 350
people, including actors and film crew, say the last thing they
need is further disruption. Leo Stevens, the chairman of the Lacock
Tenants Association, said crowds of visitors sometimes caused more
problems than filming itself.
"In any case, there won't be anything
to see," he said. "The public will have no access to the film locations."
Three huge marquees have been put up on the abbey grounds, along
with an artificial road, generators, heaters and lighting. Film
company Warner has gone to great lengths to keep filming under wraps.
Spokesman Vanessa Davies said: "Film-makers are trying to retain
the magic and mystery of the film. They want children to enjoy the
film and do not want to spoil the surprise."
The film will star 11-year-old Daniel
Radcliffe, who played David Copperfield in a BBC production, in
the role of the trainee wizard. Big names John Cleese, Robbie Coltrane,
Richard Harris, Dame Maggie Smith and Julie Walters also have parts
in the film, due for worldwide release in November.
Lacock residents are used to film-makers
taking advantage of the historic setting. Mr Stevens said day to
day life will not be much altered during filming, though one cottage
will also be used as a set. Chris Doel, the chairman of Lacock Parish
Council, hoped disruption would be minimal as most of the filming
would be in and around the abbey. His biggest concern was the inevitable
increase of traffic in the village. Landlord Chris Chapell said
the filming was good news for the Red Lion."This has brought a good
bit of business," he said.
Chippenham police are not involved
in the operation but Warner Brothers will have its own security.
The village has recently been used as a location in filming Pride
and Prejudice and the Mayor of Casterbridge.
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